Assembly calls for public engagement in counter-extremism work

A London Assembly report published on Thursday says parents should be given better advice to help prevent their children from becoming radicalised and supporting, or playing a part in, terrorism.

Assembly Members say “computer savvy-parents and families” could have a “critical role” in preventing the spread of extremism.

But the report warns that secrecy surrounding the Government’s ‘Prevent’ counter-extremism strategy and a lack of data sharing between London boroughs is undermining its effectiveness.

AMs want “regular, open and honest communication with the public about what is happening in London” and say “Londoners should be more involved in discussions about the best ways to prevent extremism across the capital.”

Joanne McCartney, Chair of the Assembly’s Police and Crime Committee, said: “Our report recognises that as the eyes and ears of the capital, we cannot afford to overlook the role of the public.

“The risks posed by online radicalisation have been examined and we know that a strong counter-narrative – which condemns violent extremism – is one of the most powerful prevention methods available, but attempts to deliver this have been lacking so far.

“Community engagement is critical to the success of Prevent, but we heard that there is a risk that the current ‘top down’ approach to Prevent delivery makes it difficult to engage citizens.”